The Arkansas Razorbacks (7-10, 0-2 SEC) will visit the Auburn Tigers (9-6, 0-2 SEC) on Thursday evening in a crucial Southeastern Conference matchup that will carry significant weight for both teams as they continue to navigate through a tough start to SEC play. This game, scheduled for 7 p.m. EST at Auburn’s home court, is the first conference showdown between these two teams this season. Both squads have faced early-season struggles in the SEC, and the outcome of this contest could have significant implications for their conference positioning going forward.
Arkansas Razorbacks’ Struggles
The Razorbacks are currently sitting at a disappointing 7-10 record overall and have started SEC play with a 0-2 record. Their most recent performance was a 90-56 loss to the Texas Longhorns, where Izzy Higginbottom, the team’s leading scorer, posted 23 points. Despite Higginbottom’s impressive individual performance, the Razorbacks were unable to contain Texas on both ends of the floor, and they have continued to struggle throughout their conference schedule. Arkansas’ difficulties have been most apparent in their high turnover numbers, averaging 14.6 turnovers per game. The Razorbacks are 3-1 when they win the turnover battle, but their inconsistency with ball control has hindered their ability to compete at a high level against top-tier teams.
Defensively, Arkansas has struggled to contain opponents, allowing 74.3 points per game over the last 10 contests, which reflects their struggles on the defensive end. They will need to shore up their defense and reduce turnovers if they are to have any chance of securing a win against Auburn. Although the Razorbacks have averaged 70.2 points per game over their last 10 games, their overall shooting efficiency has been a concern, as they are shooting just 41.1% from the field.
Auburn Tigers’ Strengths and Weaknesses
The Auburn Tigers, like the Razorbacks, have also had a rocky start to SEC play, entering this game with a 0-2 conference record. However, they have fared much better overall, with a 9-6 record on the season. At home, Auburn has been solid, with a 5-2 record, which could provide them with the edge they need to win this matchup. The Tigers have been effective offensively, averaging 71.5 points per game, which is 14.6 points more than Arkansas allows (56.9). This offensive production has been led by standout performer Deyona Gaston, who is averaging 22.7 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game. Gaston will be a key player to watch in this game, as his ability to score and control the boards will be crucial in Auburn’s efforts to secure a win.
Auburn has also been efficient in shooting, making 46.3% of their field goals, which is significantly higher than the 40.1% shooting that Arkansas allows. This offensive efficiency could be a major factor in the game, especially when considering Arkansas’ defensive struggles. Auburn’s defensive numbers have been solid, with opponents averaging just 60.6 points per game against them. The Tigers will look to use their superior shooting efficiency and defense to stifle Arkansas’ offensive attack, especially when the Razorbacks struggle to score against strong defensive teams.
Key Matchup: Arkansas’ Defense vs. Auburn’s Offense
One of the most interesting aspects of this game will be the battle between Arkansas’ defense and Auburn’s offense. Arkansas has been porous defensively, allowing 74.3 points per game in their last 10 games, while Auburn has been an efficient offensive team, averaging 71.5 points per game. Auburn will look to exploit Arkansas’ defensive vulnerabilities, particularly their inability to stop high-scoring teams. If the Razorbacks cannot contain Gaston and Auburn’s other offensive threats, this game could quickly get out of hand.
Arkansas’ defense has struggled to keep opponents from shooting efficiently, as they allow teams to shoot 41.1% from the field. In contrast, Auburn’s offense has thrived on efficiency, making 46.3% of its field goals. If Auburn continues to shoot at this level, it will likely be a long night for Arkansas. The Razorbacks must find a way to lock down Auburn’s key players, particularly Gaston, who has been dominant this season, and limit their offensive output.
Top Performers to Watch
For Auburn, Deyona Gaston is undoubtedly the player to watch. As the team’s leading scorer and rebounder, Gaston will be responsible for carrying much of the offensive load. His scoring ability and physicality in the paint will be critical in this matchup. Additionally, Gaston’s presence on the boards and as a rim protector will help Auburn control the tempo of the game. If Gaston can continue his stellar play, Auburn will be in a strong position to win.
On the other side, Izzy Higginbottom will be the key player for Arkansas. The Razorbacks’ offense runs through Higginbottom, who is averaging 23.8 points and 3.9 assists per game. He has the ability to carry Arkansas offensively, but he will need help from his teammates to ensure the Razorbacks can stay competitive. Arkansas’ success in this game will depend on whether Higginbottom can get into a rhythm and whether his teammates can step up and contribute as well.
Keys to the Game
For Arkansas, the key to success will be limiting turnovers and improving their defensive play. Arkansas has been able to win when they win the turnover battle, so it will be essential for them to take care of the ball. Additionally, they must find a way to contain Auburn’s high-scoring offense, particularly Gaston, and force the Tigers to take difficult shots. The Razorbacks will also need to get more contributions from players other than Higginbottom to avoid being a one-dimensional team.
For Auburn, the game plan will revolve around maintaining their offensive efficiency while continuing to play solid defense. Auburn has the ability to outscore opponents, and their defense has been effective at keeping teams from scoring in bunches. If Auburn can continue to execute offensively and control the pace of the game, they should come away with a win. Gaston’s play will be pivotal in this matchup, and Auburn will need to capitalize on Arkansas’ defensive vulnerabilities.
Last 10 Games Breakdown
In their last 10 games, Auburn has gone 6-4, averaging 67.1 points per game while shooting 46.0% from the field. Their defense has been effective, allowing just 60.6 points per game to opponents. Arkansas, on the other hand, has gone 3-7 over their last 10 games and has struggled to maintain consistent offensive and defensive play. They have averaged 70.2 points per game but have allowed 74.3 points per game, making their defense a major area of concern.
Conclusion
As the Auburn Tigers and Arkansas Razorbacks square off in their first SEC meeting of the season, both teams will be looking to rebound from disappointing starts in conference play. Auburn will have the advantage at home, but Arkansas has the talent to pull off an upset if they can limit turnovers and improve their defensive efforts. This game will be a critical early-season matchup for both teams as they look to improve their standing in the SEC and get back on track in 2024.
